PhD position in the Cluster of Excellence “BlueMat Water-Driven Materials” - Research Area B

For our location in Hamburg we are seeking:

PhD position in the Cluster of Excellence “BlueMat Water-Driven Materials” – Research Area B

Remuneration Group 13 | Limited: 3 years | Starting date: earliest possible | ID: FSDO014/2026 | Deadline: 30.06.2026 | Full-time/Part-time

DESY, with more than 2900 employees at its two locations in Hamburg and Zeuthen, is one of the world's leading research centres. Its research focuses on decoding the structure and function of matter, from the smallest particles of the universe to the building blocks of life. In this way, DESY contributes to solving the major questions and urgent challenges facing science, society and industry. With its ultramodern research infrastructure, its interdisciplinary research platforms and its international networks, DESY offers a highly attractive working environment in the fields of science, technology and administration as well as for the education of highly qualified young scientists.

The research group “Chemistry in Aerosols, the Atmosphere, and Aqueous Solutions” (CIA3) invites applications for a doctoral position in BlueMat’s Research Area B (Fluid Transport Materials). The research project will focus on the controlled condensation and evaporation of water at nanoparticle interfaces for applications such as artificial rain, in-situ water harvesting, and targeted inhalation therapies.

About your role:

• Production and chemical and morphological characterization of artificial nano-particles
• Quantification of water uptake potential using a range of spectroscopic and imaging techniques
• Mapping water interactions to nano-particle characteristics
• Estimating the potential for water harvesting and inhalation drug delivery
• Collaborate closely with BlueMat partners
• Share your findings through publications and engage with the research community and public

About you:

• Completed scientific university studies (Master's) in physics, chemistry, or materials/​nano/​aerosol science
• Experience with aerosol generation
• Experience with synchrotron radiation and X-ray spectroscopy and imaging
• Experience with surface, aerosol, or nanoparticle characterization
• Experience with complementary theoretical and/or computational methods, such as hygroscopic modeling, molecular dynamics, and AI/ML, would be an advantage
• Curiosity and ability to work independently
• Teamwork skills for working in interdisciplinary teams
• Very good English required (minimum B2)

Good reasons to join:

• Scientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a leading research cluster
• Access to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, mentoring, and career development
• Participation in international conferences, research stays, and collaborative networks
• Flexible working conditions, 30 vacation days, family-friendly policies

Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our DESY employees are particularly important to us. Gender equality is an important aspect for us. You will benefit from our family-friendly and collegial atmosphere, our established health management and occupational pension provision. As a public funded employer, we offer you a secure workplace and facilitate your individual career with our comprehensive training and development opportunities. Remuneration is according to the regulations of the TV-AVH. DESY offers its employees a financial supplement for a German job ticket (Deutschland-Ticket) at both locations.

For further information, please contact Lead Scientist Prof. Dr. Noenne Prisle at +49 40 8998‑91803**( [email protected] ).**

Please submit your complete application documents (letter of motivation, CV and relevant certificates).

Please kindly submit your complete application documents including your salary expectations.

We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal:

DESY promotes equal opportunities and diversity. The professional development of women is very important to us and therefore we strongly encourage women to apply for the vacant position. Applications from severely disabled persons will be given preference if they are equally qualified ( sbv.desy.de ).

You can find further information here:

Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY
Human Resources Department | Notkestraße 85 | 22607 Hamburg
Phone: +49 40 8998‑3392